New Pension Credit Winter Fuel Payment rules: MP calls for 'Pensioner Task Force'

Labour MP Neil Duncan-Jordan has called on the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to establish a 'Pensioner Task Force'. The proposed task force would "assess intersecting issues of income, housing, health and fuel costs" among State Pensioners and "make recommendations to tackle pensioner poverty".

This comes after the UK Government announced that only those on a low income receiving a means-tested benefit will be eligible for Winter Fuel Payments. This change in rules implies that an estimated 10 million pensioners will not receive the annual heating help of up to £300 this year. However, some 1.5m people over State Pension age will still receive the payment in November or December, including over 125,000 living in Scotland.

The DWP is currently running a Pension Credit awareness campaign, aimed at increasing the uptake of the means-tested benefit, which can increase State Pension income by £3,900 a year, on average. Nearly 900,000 pensioners could be entitled to this financial support that provides access to help with housing costs, heating bills and Council Tax.

In response to Mr Duncan-Jordan's proposal, Pensions Minister Emma Reynolds stated: "Immediate support for pensioners includes our commitment to the Triple Lock, with over 12 million pensioners set to benefit through the course of this parliament, with the full yearly rate of the New State Pension forecast to increase by around £1,700.", reports the Daily Record.

"Pension Credit continues to provide a safety net for the poorest pensioners and those with additional needs, such as those with a severe disability, caring responsibility, responsibility for a child or certain housing costs. We want everybody who could be eligible to claim it, which is why we have launched a nationwide Pension Credit take-up campaign."

The DWP Minister has also confirmed that the Household Support Fund will be extended from October 1, 2024, until March 31, 2025, to assist those most in need, including vulnerable pensioners. To enable this extension of the Fund in England, an additional £421 million will be available, plus allocations for devolved governments through the Barnett formula at their discretion. Scotland is set to receive about £79m.

Ms Reynolds said: "We are determined to support pensioners and give them the dignity and security they deserve in retirement.

"The Government has committed to reviewing the pensions landscape. The first phase, focusing on investment outcomes, began in July and we will follow that later this year with the next phase that will consider further steps to improve pension outcomes, including assessing retirement adequacy."

Over half a million people have signed an online petition by Age UK, urging Chancellor Rachel Reeves to ensure Winter Fuel Payments are not means-tested. The petition, titled 'Save the Winter Fuel Payment for struggling pensioners', warns that changes to eligibility could affect millions of elderly individuals who depend on this additional financial aid to manage increased heating costs during winter.

The petition is available for viewing, signing and sharing on the Age UK website.

Pension Credit explained

Pension Credit is a misunderstood benefit, with many older individuals believing they're ineligible due to owning property or having savings. However, this means-tested benefit can provide assistance with housing costs, Winter Fuel Payment and Council Tax.

Pension Credit guarantees a minimum weekly income of £218.15 for single pensioners or £332.95 for couples. It's a tax-free payment and even an award of just £1 per week can unlock other support.

Quickest way to check eligibility for Pension Credit

To quickly check eligibility for Pension Credit, older individuals or their family and friends can use the online Pension Credit calculator on the GOV. UK website.

Alternatively, claims can be made directly through the Pension Credit helpline on 0800 99 1234, which operates from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.

Expert advice and assistance is also readily available:

• Independent Age
• Income Max
• Citizens Advice
• Age UK

Pension Credit ensures a minimum income of £218.15 per week for single pensioners and £332.95 for couples, with additional amounts available for those with disabilities or caring responsibilities.